A Metaphors and idioms referring to light and darkness The present experimental data may shed (new) light on1 the formation of the planets.
Views on depression have changed in (the) light of2 recent studies of the brain.
Novelists, poets and essayists often use history to illuminate3 their understanding of human behaviour. The book provides an illuminating discussion of how languages change.
Animal models can be used to elucidate4 basic principles of the developmental origins of adult diseases.
The report revealed the glaring5 discrepancy between patients' needs and what the health service can offer them, and highlighted6 the need for a new approach.
The report shines a light on7 the questions surrounding child care and provides crucial data. Substance abuse continues to destroy individuals and communities, and researchers remain in the dark8 about what can ensure successful recovery from addiction. The book dealt with economic policy in the shadow of9 the Civil War of 1994-1999.
1 provide an explanation for it which makes it easier to understand. We can also say cast or throw light on 2 because of 3 show more clearly something that is difficult to understand 4 explain or make clear (from the Latin lucidus meaning 'clear') 5 something bad that is very obvious {to glare means to shine too brightly) 6 emphasised something important 7 focuses on 8 continue in a state of not knowing something 9 in a situation where something bad has happened or is happening
B Metaphors and idioms referring to war and conflict Look at these extracts from lectures where the speakers use such metaphors and idioms.
'Critics opposed to D.H. Lawrence attacked his novels on various grounds, both trivial and important. But despite the apparent diversity of opinion, Lawrence's critics were united on. what they saw as several serious problems.'
'In the last two poems we see the poet becoming increasingly detached from the material world, retreating1 more into his own mind than before.'
'Parents and teachers need to maintain a united front3 on the
question of bad conduct at school.'
'It's useful at the present time to look at Japan's experience in the battle against air pollution, and it's a battle no nation can afford to lose.'
Lawsuits can certainly affect the value of a company, and firms need strategies to combat the onslaught5 of lawsuits.'
'In the last ten years or so, children have been bombarded with4 increasing amounts of violence in the media.'
1 going back 2a very powerful attack 3 remain united in their opinions and agree on how to act 4 forced to experience, subjected to
Exercises
1 Choose a word from the box to complete each sentence.
elucidate glaring highlights illuminate light remained shadow shed shine
The results of the investigation …………………..a light on the pressures of the global economy on farmers in developing countries.
Until recently, scientists have …………………… in the dark as to the causes of the disease, but a recent breakthrough promises to new light on the problem.
Our whole notion of time and space has changed in the ……………………..of recent developments in physics.
These communities have lived for decades in the………………………… of poverty and social deprivation.
The collapse of the bridge the need for a more rigorous analysis of the effects of constant traffic movements.
The team carried out a series of experiments in an attempt to the mysterious processes at work in the organism.
The article helps to………………for the ordinary reader some of the more difficult references in Shakespeare's plays.
8 The professor found some……………………errors in one student's calculations.